Closing elementary schools makes no sense

Wednesday

Jan 29, 2014 at 12:01 AM

Editor, the Record:

Editor, the Record:

I went to the Stroudsburg school board meeting on Jan. 23 and saw no compelling argument whatsoever to close elementary schools. Countless studies and research done throughout our country and abroad have shown conclusively that smaller local schools provide a better education and school experience, as well as social benefits. These conclusions are supported by a wide range of statistics showing better grades and development, more parent involvement, and many other additional positive effects. Anyone in any aspect of education should be aware of this, and yet not one board member, nor the superintendent, mentioned this fact.

Proponents for closing schools seem to indicate cost savings as the primary motivation for closing elementary schools. However, there has been no clear explanation as to what the cost savings would be, let alone in the context of what additional costs would be incurred in order to give a true picture of what the real cost benefit would be. This is not to mention the incalculable costs associated with compromising our children's education and our society.

In education, the children come first. It makes no sense that anyone hearing an argument to consider closing schools and consolidating districts cawn believe that it is in any way better for the children.

If closing schools were a true financial necessity with no other choice, this might make sense, but this is simply not the case.

Any cost savings achieved by closing schools are miniscule at best, and the cost of compromising our children's education and our society far outweigh any small financial benefits of closing schools.

DONALD JOHNSON

Stroudsburg

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